The government could since it was with the Department of Education. Depending on your state law they can go to court with you (the collection agency) to get a judgment), or the government intends on garnishing you or getting your tax refund. Take care.

The previous comments answered your question accept for the fact that you can not get away from Federal debt. You typically cant even include it in a bankruptcy. Your best bet is to work with these guys and be honest about what you can afford as far as a repayment goes. At the end of the day you are going to pay this whether you cooperate or whether you go to court, and get forced into a payment. Once the IRS starts garnishing your tax returns good luck getting it stopped once the payments are all made... Bad News.. pain in the BUTT...Even if you can only afford $20 a month, i suggest paying it..